Strictly Pros Luba Mushtuk, Nancy Xu Miss Out Celebrity Partners 2025

Strictly Come Dancing 2025 is set to begin next month, but professional dancers Luba Mushtuk and Nancy Xu have been informed they will not be paired with celebrity partners this year, excluding them from competing in the main show. Despite their disappointment, they will still participate in group dances, assist with choreography, and help train the celebrities. Last year, Nancy danced with former X Factor winner Shayne Ward, and Luba was partnered with Nick Knowles. Additionally, Gorka Marquez has opted not to take a leading role with a celebrity partner this year as he spends several weeks judging the Spanish edition of Strictly, Bailando Con Las Estrellas, and reportedly feels relieved to avoid the spotlight during a controversial series. Both Luba and Nancy understand that not all professionals receive celebrity partners annually but remain grateful for their roles on the show. The lineup for the upcoming season includes stars like Emmerdale's Lewis Cope, model Ellie Goldstein, Love Island's Dani Dyer, and Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.